Christmas Tea Cakes
Delightful Christmas Tea Cakes are buttery, nutty cookies dusted with powdered sugar, perfect for holiday gatherings and sweet treats with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add flour, salt, and chopped nuts; mix well.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- While warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
- Allow to cool, then roll in powdered sugar again before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the chopped nuts with additional flour or rolled oats. Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted for various occasions, just like other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Tea Cakes are delightful on their own or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Cranberry Sauce Salad for a festive touch. For an added treat, try serving them with Lime Delight Pie for a refreshing contrast. Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through, or enjoy them at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Tea Cakes contains roughly 973 calories, with 10g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, it may affect the flavor and texture of the cookies. Butter provides a richer taste and a better consistency. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based butter substitute for similar results.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are excellent choices for adding flavor and crunch to these tea cakes. However, feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts based on your preferences. Just be sure to chop them finely for even distribution throughout the dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, roll into balls and bake as directed. This makes it convenient for holiday baking or last-minute gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).